Hairdresser Salary

Hairdressers are very appreciated these days – as a matter of fact, hairdressing has recorded a 15% growth regarding the job outlook over the past years, and one of the most important benefits of working as a hairdresser is that in addition to the fixed fees, you can also get generous tips. In spite of being one of the lowest-paid professions in the beauty industry, the tips and the bonuses certainly help. That being said, the median yearly salary of a hairdresser in the United States of America is of around $28,000 a year, although it depends greatly on the geographical location, the work environment as well as the overall level of expertise of the professional.

Pay Scale In Different Parts Of The United States of America

At the time being, the highest paying state for hairdressers in the United States of America is Missouri, where these beauty professionals make more than $41,000 a year. On the other hand, the states of New York and the District of Columbia also pay hairdressers highly motivating yearly wages, that range between $32,000 and as much as $40,000, which is significantly over the national average.

Hairdresser Job Description

Hairdressers have a series of major duties and responsibilities, and one of the most important ones is keeping the tools like scissors and combs clean and sanitized. It is very important for all the hairdressing tools to be carefully cleaned before using them on another customer. Also, these professionals are also responsible with cutting and shaping the hair or the hair pieces according to the hair type, the facial features of the customer as well as their overall preferences and requirements. It is important for the hairdresser to know how to use trimmers, razors, scissors as well as clippers, for the best final result.

Hairdressers do more than just cutting and styling hair, as they always make sure that the new haircut complements the overall features and facial traits of the customer getting it. In some cases, they are responsible for scheduling appointments and various other administrative tasks as well, they can bleach, dye and tint the hair and they are also responsible for updating the customer information records. These professionals also shampoo, condition and then carefully rinse the hair of the patient, they use cash registers, they demonstrate how different hair products work and they also sell products. They perform various straightening, curling and waving tasks, they comb, brush and spray the hair or the wigs of the customer and they also style it.

How To Become A Hairdresser?

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In 2017, workers with a bachelor's degree or higher had almost twice as muchmedian earnings per week than workers with only a high school diploma*.

*Bureau of Labor Statistics

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A very common misconception these days is that becoming a hairdresser takes little to no formal training, but it actually does require some degree of academic education. Hairdressing is an art, and even though these hair professionals get most of the training by practicing hands-on, they also need to have a theoretical basis as well.

The requirements for enrolling in a specialized hairdressing course are minimal, as all you need is a high school degree or a GED. Search for cosmetology schools in your area, but make sure that they are properly reviewed and accredited by the NACCAS prior to enrolling in them.

Once you finish the formal training program, you can move on to getting your apprenticeship position as a local salon in your city. It often happens that apprentices do get a wage, although it is a minimal one. However, the apprenticeship will certainly help you improve your skills and your basic knowledge, and it will also help you prepare thoroughly for the final exam, which is the state licensing exam. Just like any other licensing exam these days, the exam for getting your state licensure involves two parts, a written part and a practical part where you get the chance to prove your skills as a hairdresser.

Certification And Licensure

A license is essential for working as a hairdresser, as most of the states require one. Getting a license involves having completed a state-approved education program and passing a theoretical ad practical exam. Also, in addition to the basic hairstyling tasks, you need to be familiar with state laws and different sanitation procedures that apply in the state where you reside.

Hairdresser Salary In Canada, Australia And The UK

The median hourly wage of a hairdresser in Canada is of Ca$12,00 per hour, while in Australia is of Au$18,00 per hour and in the United Kingdom of 10 pounds per hour.

Verdict On Hairdresser Salary

To conclude, the salary of a hairdresser is usually very low, although it is directly proportional with the number of clients. Tips and bonuses are available as well.